A regular performer throughout the Philadelphia, PA area over the last ten years, pianist/bandleader and educator Julian Hartwell, has brought together a band of young up-and-coming musicians from the area's vibrant jazz scene for the production of The Julian Hartwell Project, the group's self-titled, all-original debut album. Featuring eight original compositions, the music highlights a light ensemble that has little problem sounding like a formidable big band and use their high-octane approach to blend elements of R&B, funk and bebop ...

I love jazz because, even after many years as a professional performer, teacher and author on the subject, this music still possesses the element of deep mystery and surprise. I recently heard somebody say that if you can explain something, you take the mystery out of it

I love jazz because, even after many years as a professional performer, teacher and author on the subject, this music still possesses the element of deep mystery and surprise. I recently heard somebody say that if you can explain something, you take the mystery out of it. Not in this case! It seems that with every explanation, new questions arise exponentially! It's like the universe is constantly inviting (challenging) you to grow musically.